Description
Rich, creamy, and irresistibly decadent, Cheesy Jumbo Lump Crab Au Gratin is the kind of dish that transforms any ordinary evening into a five-star dining experience. Brimming with sweet, delicate crab meat and bubbling cheese, this southern comfort classic feels both luxurious and homey—a rare balance that makes it a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re planning a special dinner or craving something cozy, this gratin offers bold flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1 pound jumbo lump crab meat
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
3/4 cup shredded Fontina cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until golden and smooth.
2. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of whole milk and 1/2 cup of heavy cream. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce, and 2 minced garlic cloves.
3. Lower the heat and stir in 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar and 3/4 cup shredded Fontina until fully melted and smooth.
4. Gently fold in 1 pound of jumbo lump crab meat. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Be careful not to break up the crab.
5. Pour the mixture into a buttered 1.5-quart baking dish. Top with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15-18 minutes until bubbly. Broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown on top.
7. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives and serve hot.
Notes
For best texture, do not overmix the crab meat.
Broiling is key to getting that golden, bubbly topping. Watch it closely.
This dish is rich—pair it with something crisp like a lemony salad or simple roasted greens.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (1/4 of dish)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: cheesy crab au gratin, baked crab casserole, creamy seafood dish